While the streets of Chinese cities begin to empty as people return home for family reunions during Spring Festival, which falls on Feb 5 this year, businesses providing accommodation for the pets left behind are working through their busiest time in East China's Xiamen city.

For many, securing suitable temporary homes for their pets – which are now often considered family members – is just as difficult as getting a train ticket during the year's biggest festival. It can be even more costly.

"Pets have become an integral part of the lives of many people. When their owners are on vacation, they want to make sure the animals are given the same treatment," said Qi Jing, who owns a pet hotel.

Almost all pet shops and pet hotels in Xiamen require a deposit of about 200 yuan ($27), and charges are higher than usual. "During Spring Festival, prices are 1.5 times higher," said one shop owner.

During the festival, cat and dog foster care fees in Xiamen typically range from 70 yuan to 150 yuan per day, in comparison with about 30 yuan to 100 yuan during Spring Festival three years ago. It's not rare to see fees exceeding 100 yuan near and during the festival.